The auto industry is undergoing its biggest transformation in over a century.
Gasoline is giving way to electricity. Human drivers are giving way to AI.
In this era of disruption, the DRIV ETF (Global X Autonomous & Electric Vehicles ETF) is emerging as a smart way to capture long-term growth.
DRIV is a thematic ETF that focuses on electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and related technologies.
In this post, we'll explore DRIV’s structure, benefits, risks, and how it fits into a future-focused portfolio.
What is DRIV?
DRIV stands for the Global X Autonomous & Electric Vehicles ETF.
It invests in global companies involved in the development and production of autonomous and electric vehicles.
Key Facts
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ETF Name: Global X Autonomous & Electric Vehicles ETF (DRIV)
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Issuer: Global X
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Inception Date: April 13, 2018
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Index Tracked: Solactive Autonomous & Electric Vehicles Index
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Expense Ratio: 0.68%
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AUM (Assets Under Management): Over $120 million
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Dividend Frequency: Quarterly
What Companies Does DRIV Hold?
DRIV offers exposure to a wide range of industries within the future mobility space — EV makers, chipmakers, software firms, and auto OEMs.
| Company | Sector | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla (TSLA) | EV | Leading global electric vehicle brand |
| NVIDIA (NVDA) | Semiconductors | Powers autonomous driving AI |
| Apple (AAPL) | IT | Rumored to enter the EV space (Apple Car) |
| Alphabet (GOOGL) | Autonomous driving | Owns Waymo, a self-driving tech company |
| Toyota, Ford, GM | Automakers | Legacy carmakers pivoting to EVs |
| Qualcomm, Intel | Semiconductors | Building chips for autonomous vehicles |
👉 DRIV covers not just vehicle manufacturers, but the entire ecosystem of future transportation technology.
Key Advantages of DRIV
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Dual exposure to EVs and autonomous tech
Rather than focusing on just EVs or just self-driving tech, DRIV captures both. -
Invest in future megatrends
As global governments push for electrification and automation, DRIV benefits from secular growth. -
Global diversification
DRIV includes companies from the U.S., Japan, Germany, South Korea, and more. -
Balanced thematic focus
While DRIV is thematic, it isn’t overly narrow. It blends IT, auto, and chip sectors.
Risks and Limitations of DRIV
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Higher volatility
As a growth-focused ETF, DRIV may fluctuate significantly with market sentiment. -
Relatively high fees (0.68%)
More expensive than passive index ETFs like VOO or SPY. -
Intense competition in EV & autonomous markets
High R&D costs and shifting regulatory landscapes could affect profitability. -
Includes early-stage companies
Some holdings may lack revenue, relying on future potential.
Who Should Consider DRIV?
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Investors with a positive long-term view of EVs and autonomous vehicles
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Those building a future-focused thematic portfolio
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Growth-oriented investors willing to handle short-term volatility
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People who want diversified exposure without picking individual EV stocks
How Does DRIV Compare to Other ETFs?
| ETF | DRIV | LIT | ARKQ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | EV + Autonomous Driving | Lithium & Battery Supply | Disruptive transportation tech(incl. drones, robotics) |
| Holdings | ~75+ companies | ~40–50 companies | ~30–40 companies |
| Expense | 0.68% | 0.75% | 0.75% |
| Risk Level | Moderate to High | High | Very High |
👉 DRIV is a balanced thematic ETF for those who want EV and autonomous tech exposure with diversified risk.
Final Thoughts: DRIV – Capturing the Shift in Mobility
The DRIV ETF allows you to invest in not just electric vehicles,
but also the entire value chain powering the next generation of transportation.
📌 Ideal for long-term investors who believe in tech evolution
📌 Useful for thematic allocation with growth potential and global exposure
While short-term volatility exists, DRIV offers a diversified and strategic path to tap into the mobility revolution.
"This post is intended to introduce the ETF and should not be considered a buy recommendation."
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